Gestalt Counselling in Iver Heath

Photo of Vanita Chamdal - Vanita Therapy, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Vanita Therapy
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
Therapy can help you to work through your issues and goals in an environment with a trained professional. I have worked on issues that involve significant life changes including: changing schools/areas, marriage, having a baby, bereavement/loss, breakdown of relationships, etc. Other areas of expertise include working with anxiety, panic, stress, low mood, depression, self-harm, trauma, building resilience and preparing for significant changes. Sessions can be held as regularly as necessary to support the changes you want to make.
Therapy can help you to work through your issues and goals in an environment with a trained professional. I have worked on issues that involve significant life changes including: changing schools/areas, marriage, having a baby, bereavement/loss, breakdown of relationships, etc. Other areas of expertise include working with anxiety, panic, stress, low mood, depression, self-harm, trauma, building resilience and preparing for significant changes. Sessions can be held as regularly as necessary to support the changes you want to make.
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Photo of Sarah Keller, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Sarah Keller
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
Sometimes life is confusing, painful and problematic and we are troubled, distressed and not at peace with our lives or, ourselves. I fully believe that therapy is a setting in which we are able to speak freely and not feel judged; a place where we are met with empathy and understanding. I truly believe a setting such as this provides the basis from which healing can begin. It is absolutely my belief that the answers to our questions lie within us and we just need some assistance in navigating to those answers. Whatever it is you are seeking help with, I would love to work with you to find your answers, clarity and peace.
Sometimes life is confusing, painful and problematic and we are troubled, distressed and not at peace with our lives or, ourselves. I fully believe that therapy is a setting in which we are able to speak freely and not feel judged; a place where we are met with empathy and understanding. I truly believe a setting such as this provides the basis from which healing can begin. It is absolutely my belief that the answers to our questions lie within us and we just need some assistance in navigating to those answers. Whatever it is you are seeking help with, I would love to work with you to find your answers, clarity and peace.
01895 545631 View 01895 545631

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shyla Celeghin, Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Shyla Celeghin
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
The main modalities I integrate in my practices are Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Gestalt, Existential, Humanistic, Transactional Analysis, and Person Centred approaches
Expertise: Anxiety, Depression, Attachment & Relationship Issues, Self-esteem, Social Anxiety, Loneliness, Midlife Conflicts, Bereavement, Existential , Complex Trauma & Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Working with difference & Intersectionality, Workplace Trauma and stress, Discrimination, Religious and cultural issues, Abortion and Addiction .
The main modalities I integrate in my practices are Psychodynamic, Transpersonal, Gestalt, Existential, Humanistic, Transactional Analysis, and Person Centred approaches
Expertise: Anxiety, Depression, Attachment & Relationship Issues, Self-esteem, Social Anxiety, Loneliness, Midlife Conflicts, Bereavement, Existential , Complex Trauma & Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Working with difference & Intersectionality, Workplace Trauma and stress, Discrimination, Religious and cultural issues, Abortion and Addiction .
07858 131168 View 07858 131168
Photo of Dr Emily Kilburn, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Dr Emily Kilburn
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
I use Gestalt to increase awareness of your bodily sensations, emotions and relationships, by exploring your experience in real time.
My specialty is working with students (16+), graduates & self-conscious issues. Your struggle may look like imposter syndrome & procrastination, perfectionism & anxiety, body image & eating disorders, shame & low self-value, anxiety & intrusive thoughts, career & money worries, sex & relationship issues. Or simply a feeling of discomfort in your own skin. I can be with you where you’re at, whether your needs are clear or confused, whether it’s a relief or a challenge to open up. Maybe you want help through a difficult time in life, or are seeking a more open-ended exploration of who you are, where you fit & what you want from life.
I use Gestalt to increase awareness of your bodily sensations, emotions and relationships, by exploring your experience in real time.
My specialty is working with students (16+), graduates & self-conscious issues. Your struggle may look like imposter syndrome & procrastination, perfectionism & anxiety, body image & eating disorders, shame & low self-value, anxiety & intrusive thoughts, career & money worries, sex & relationship issues. Or simply a feeling of discomfort in your own skin. I can be with you where you’re at, whether your needs are clear or confused, whether it’s a relief or a challenge to open up. Maybe you want help through a difficult time in life, or are seeking a more open-ended exploration of who you are, where you fit & what you want from life.
0118 230 2582 View 0118 230 2582
Photo of Kathryn Poulton, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Kathryn Poulton
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
I am a final year MSc trainee in Gestalt Psychotherapy.
My approach is relational and includes the whole person- thoughts, feelings, beliefs, ways of being with others, bodily sensations, how you are in the world - these are all things that may emerge during our work and that we can explore together.
I am a final year MSc trainee in Gestalt Psychotherapy.
My approach is relational and includes the whole person- thoughts, feelings, beliefs, ways of being with others, bodily sensations, how you are in the world - these are all things that may emerge during our work and that we can explore together.
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Photo of George Kilmurry, Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
George Kilmurry
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
London W2
My practice is integrative transpersonal, meaning that I draw upon the main modalities of therapeutic practice such as Psychodynamic, Jungian, Gestalt, Humanistic and Existential.
I am a psychotherapist in Maida Vale and Aylesbury, also online, who provides a safe, confidential space where you can be heard and work through difficult issues in a way that is comfortable to you. At times, everyone gets overwhelmed. You may be feeling isolated, depressed, live with anxiety, going through a bereavement, or be struggling with a failed relationship of some kind. You may be facing a crisis or a time in your life where meaning, freedom, self-assertion, even awakening and deeper purpose are demanding of your attention.
My practice is integrative transpersonal, meaning that I draw upon the main modalities of therapeutic practice such as Psychodynamic, Jungian, Gestalt, Humanistic and Existential.
I am a psychotherapist in Maida Vale and Aylesbury, also online, who provides a safe, confidential space where you can be heard and work through difficult issues in a way that is comfortable to you. At times, everyone gets overwhelmed. You may be feeling isolated, depressed, live with anxiety, going through a bereavement, or be struggling with a failed relationship of some kind. You may be facing a crisis or a time in your life where meaning, freedom, self-assertion, even awakening and deeper purpose are demanding of your attention.
020 4538 4070 View 020 4538 4070
Photo of Dan Cornford, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Dan Cornford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
1 Endorsed
Marlow SL7
Mine is a Gestalt therapeutic approach which means we will work in the here and now and focus on how the past may be impacting you presently.
We all experience pain and distress in our lives sometimes. We may feel stuck, overwhelmed and unable to cope any longer. Therapy offers a path towards positive change and deeper understanding. I believe therapy should be available to everybody and everybody can benefit from therapy. You have already taken the first, brave step towards becoming closer to who you want to be by reaching out for help. I can provide a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your problems and work together with compassion and insight towards a brighter future.
Mine is a Gestalt therapeutic approach which means we will work in the here and now and focus on how the past may be impacting you presently.
We all experience pain and distress in our lives sometimes. We may feel stuck, overwhelmed and unable to cope any longer. Therapy offers a path towards positive change and deeper understanding. I believe therapy should be available to everybody and everybody can benefit from therapy. You have already taken the first, brave step towards becoming closer to who you want to be by reaching out for help. I can provide a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your problems and work together with compassion and insight towards a brighter future.
01628 969367 View 01628 969367
Photo of Kate Megase, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Kate Megase
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Croydon CR0
I use different counselling approaches such as; Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Gestalt approach.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in couple and relationship therapy. I also work with individuals and I provide clinical supervision to other therapists. I am the author of a self-help book called Dump the Baggage. I specialise in issues associated with: Couples and relationship therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, and Low self-esteem. I am committed to providing an excellent service to help my clients: Develop healthy relationships, Fulfil overall therapeutic goals within six sessions, and Provide clear techniques and strategies along with unique ways and ideas to treat stress, anxiety and depression & Improve self-esteem.
I use different counselling approaches such as; Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Gestalt approach.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in couple and relationship therapy. I also work with individuals and I provide clinical supervision to other therapists. I am the author of a self-help book called Dump the Baggage. I specialise in issues associated with: Couples and relationship therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, and Low self-esteem. I am committed to providing an excellent service to help my clients: Develop healthy relationships, Fulfil overall therapeutic goals within six sessions, and Provide clear techniques and strategies along with unique ways and ideas to treat stress, anxiety and depression & Improve self-esteem.
01798 305047 View 01798 305047
Photo of Robert Fowler, Counsellor, BACP
Robert Fowler
Counsellor, BACP
Aylesbury HP21
I am a qualified Humanistic Counsellor, which means I embrace theories from Transactional Analysis (TA), Gestalt and Person-Centred therapy.
You may find the decision to come to counselling a difficult one to make, so I offer a phone call to begin with, to find out what you expect or would like to achieve through counselling as well as to reassure you, before we meet in person. Taking that first step may be daunting, so I offer a neutral, relaxed and safe space for therapy within the Aylesbury area. Having worked with Bucks Mind Charity, I have gained experience in working with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and low self-esteem, working with clients of all ages.
I am a qualified Humanistic Counsellor, which means I embrace theories from Transactional Analysis (TA), Gestalt and Person-Centred therapy.
You may find the decision to come to counselling a difficult one to make, so I offer a phone call to begin with, to find out what you expect or would like to achieve through counselling as well as to reassure you, before we meet in person. Taking that first step may be daunting, so I offer a neutral, relaxed and safe space for therapy within the Aylesbury area. Having worked with Bucks Mind Charity, I have gained experience in working with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and low self-esteem, working with clients of all ages.
01442 504383 View 01442 504383
Photo of Fiona Harnett, Counsellor, MBACP
Fiona Harnett
Counsellor, MBACP
I have trained in both Gestalt and Person-centred modalities.
I offer a chance to reflect on the difficulties or problems you are experiencing in a safe and confidential environment. Together we can explore your situation in a way that leads to fresh perspectives and perhaps a new understanding of yourself. Counselling is not about giving you solutions or advice but empowering you to make your own changes.
I have trained in both Gestalt and Person-centred modalities.
I offer a chance to reflect on the difficulties or problems you are experiencing in a safe and confidential environment. Together we can explore your situation in a way that leads to fresh perspectives and perhaps a new understanding of yourself. Counselling is not about giving you solutions or advice but empowering you to make your own changes.
01753 387452 View 01753 387452
Photo of Lisa Dawn Pyper, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Dawn Pyper
Counsellor, MBACP
Aylesbury HP22
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Person Centered, NLP, Gestalt, Attachment and Bonding, Creative Therapy, Gestalt, Transactional Anaylisis.
Hello. I run a counselling practice for woman who are currently experiencing anxiety, depression or burn out. I specifically support woman who identify with being highly sensitive or are ADHD diagnosed or undiagnosed. On Fridays I work face to face from a therapy room on Tring High street, and on Mondays to Wednesdays I provide face to face sessions online or by telephone. How can I help? As a trauma informed Integrative counsellor, I combine therapeutic approaches to fit you as a person, depending on your own specific needs, life experiences and individual personality.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Person Centered, NLP, Gestalt, Attachment and Bonding, Creative Therapy, Gestalt, Transactional Anaylisis.
Hello. I run a counselling practice for woman who are currently experiencing anxiety, depression or burn out. I specifically support woman who identify with being highly sensitive or are ADHD diagnosed or undiagnosed. On Fridays I work face to face from a therapy room on Tring High street, and on Mondays to Wednesdays I provide face to face sessions online or by telephone. How can I help? As a trauma informed Integrative counsellor, I combine therapeutic approaches to fit you as a person, depending on your own specific needs, life experiences and individual personality.
01442 974571 View 01442 974571
Photo of Jack Williamson - Jack Williamson Individual, Couples & EMDR Therapy, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Jack Williamson Individual, Couples & EMDR Therapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
London WC2H
To challenge and confront issues, I will use a gestalt approach, and throughout I will use a humanistic approach to build and sustain trust in the therapeutic relationship.
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm Jack Williamson, a compassionate & dedicated psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout & impostor syndrome. With a background as a former music industry executive, I understand the pressures of high-demand environments and the toll they can take on mental health, as well as the impacts every day life can have on your well-being. My therapeutic approach is integrative, combining psychodynamic and humanistic modalities, tailored to your unique needs. I am also a qualified couples therapist and EMDR therapist.
To challenge and confront issues, I will use a gestalt approach, and throughout I will use a humanistic approach to build and sustain trust in the therapeutic relationship.
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm Jack Williamson, a compassionate & dedicated psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout & impostor syndrome. With a background as a former music industry executive, I understand the pressures of high-demand environments and the toll they can take on mental health, as well as the impacts every day life can have on your well-being. My therapeutic approach is integrative, combining psychodynamic and humanistic modalities, tailored to your unique needs. I am also a qualified couples therapist and EMDR therapist.
020 3835 4378 View 020 3835 4378
Photo of Velma Dennis, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Velma Dennis
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
London SW16
My clinical approach is integrative including psychodynamic, gestalt, CBT, Person-centred and solution -focused my aim is to help the clients to address issues that are holding them back in their life
I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor and Coach & placement clinical Supervisor working towards Certification I offer a safe non-judgemental and confidential space for you to freely explore your situation and understand it better. We can work together to understand your past ,see were you want to be in your life and explore the best way of getting there.My passion is to help people fulfill their potential and to help them through the difficult times.
My clinical approach is integrative including psychodynamic, gestalt, CBT, Person-centred and solution -focused my aim is to help the clients to address issues that are holding them back in their life
I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor and Coach & placement clinical Supervisor working towards Certification I offer a safe non-judgemental and confidential space for you to freely explore your situation and understand it better. We can work together to understand your past ,see were you want to be in your life and explore the best way of getting there.My passion is to help people fulfill their potential and to help them through the difficult times.
01798 305068 View 01798 305068
Photo of Pavol Gabaj, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Pavol Gabaj
Psychotherapist, MBACP
6 Endorsed
London SW4
Then, through dialogue, we'll explore what arises between us and how your feelings manifest in the body using Gestalt therapy.
I specialise in anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress as well as men's and women's issues. Intimacy and relationships, unresolved childhood trauma, low self-esteem, bereavement, guilt, shame, loneliness, anger management, work-related issues, overthinking or insecurity are all areas I have helped my clients with. I offer a safe, empathetic and compassionate space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. Through our therapeutic dialogue, we will identify patterns, develop personalised coping strategies to empower you to make authentic choices in line with your values.
Then, through dialogue, we'll explore what arises between us and how your feelings manifest in the body using Gestalt therapy.
I specialise in anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress as well as men's and women's issues. Intimacy and relationships, unresolved childhood trauma, low self-esteem, bereavement, guilt, shame, loneliness, anger management, work-related issues, overthinking or insecurity are all areas I have helped my clients with. I offer a safe, empathetic and compassionate space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. Through our therapeutic dialogue, we will identify patterns, develop personalised coping strategies to empower you to make authentic choices in line with your values.
020 3667 0776 View 020 3667 0776
Photo of Patricia Luz, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Patricia Luz
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
London SW7
The practice uses an eclectic approach by incorporating traditional psychotherapeutic modalities— person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, and Gestalt - with mindfulness-based practices.
Hi, I’m Patricia. I know life can be quite challenging. It often leaves us in need of support to reconnect with our true selves and realise our full potential. Challenges can manifest as worry, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, fear, relationship issues, and even lead to addictions or post-traumatic stress. To heal and move forward, you need love, patience, safety, and the time to protect and nurture yourself as you grow stronger and more authentic. I founded Luz Counselling to guide people from this place of pain and fear back to their true selves.
The practice uses an eclectic approach by incorporating traditional psychotherapeutic modalities— person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, and Gestalt - with mindfulness-based practices.
Hi, I’m Patricia. I know life can be quite challenging. It often leaves us in need of support to reconnect with our true selves and realise our full potential. Challenges can manifest as worry, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, fear, relationship issues, and even lead to addictions or post-traumatic stress. To heal and move forward, you need love, patience, safety, and the time to protect and nurture yourself as you grow stronger and more authentic. I founded Luz Counselling to guide people from this place of pain and fear back to their true selves.
07460 232155 View 07460 232155
Photo of Denis Grace, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Denis Grace
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
London W1W
g: CBT, Parts Therapy, Attachment and Gestalt.
Are you struggling to make sense of why your relationships are failing? Do you find social interactions cause you anxiety? Do you see repeated patterns, caused by the scars from your childhood still causing you pain now? These are the deeper emotional wounds I can help with. My therapy combines various methods to heal these deeper pains. I help clients from young to elderly; male, female or gender neutral. It could be from having difficulties with boundaries in life which you want to change to something as simple as wanting to reach a specific goal in life.
g: CBT, Parts Therapy, Attachment and Gestalt.
Are you struggling to make sense of why your relationships are failing? Do you find social interactions cause you anxiety? Do you see repeated patterns, caused by the scars from your childhood still causing you pain now? These are the deeper emotional wounds I can help with. My therapy combines various methods to heal these deeper pains. I help clients from young to elderly; male, female or gender neutral. It could be from having difficulties with boundaries in life which you want to change to something as simple as wanting to reach a specific goal in life.
020 3816 3561 View 020 3816 3561
Photo of Joanna Wajszczuk, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Joanna Wajszczuk
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
London EC3V
I am a UKCP-accredited Gestalt and EMDR Psychotherapist, offering services in both English and Polish.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, stress, bereavement, life transitions, eating disorders, OCD, and anger management. I combine a relational Gestalt approach with EMDR therapy, while also incorporating elements of Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, and mindfulness.
I am a UKCP-accredited Gestalt and EMDR Psychotherapist, offering services in both English and Polish.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, stress, bereavement, life transitions, eating disorders, OCD, and anger management. I combine a relational Gestalt approach with EMDR therapy, while also incorporating elements of Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, and mindfulness.
020 3984 9798 View 020 3984 9798
Photo of Nicholas Wilson-James - Nick - Via Nova Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Nick - Via Nova Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily use a combination of Gestalt Therapy and Transactional Analysis.
Looking for a safe space to talk and untangle life’s challenges? I’m a therapeutic counsellor specialising in supporting LGBT clients, though I welcome anyone seeking clarity and connection in their lives. My approach is humanistic, which means I see you as the expert on your own life and work alongside you to explore what’s holding you back and how you can move forward. Our sessions are a collaborative and down-to-earth conversation, tailored to you. We focus on what’s happening in your life right now and the deeper patterns shaping it, all in a way that feels natural and connected.
I primarily use a combination of Gestalt Therapy and Transactional Analysis.
Looking for a safe space to talk and untangle life’s challenges? I’m a therapeutic counsellor specialising in supporting LGBT clients, though I welcome anyone seeking clarity and connection in their lives. My approach is humanistic, which means I see you as the expert on your own life and work alongside you to explore what’s holding you back and how you can move forward. Our sessions are a collaborative and down-to-earth conversation, tailored to you. We focus on what’s happening in your life right now and the deeper patterns shaping it, all in a way that feels natural and connected.
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Photo of Gabrielle Anaïs Tekerian, Counsellor, MSc, MUKCP
Gabrielle Anaïs Tekerian
Counsellor, MSc, MUKCP
Marlow SL7
As a gestalt therapist, there is a look to the East, philosophies such as Taoism, Buddhism underpin the way I work.
If you are not sure, I would encourage you to give therapy a chance. We live in such a busy world, it can be difficult to hear ourselves think. Therapy gives you space. A safe one. A space in which you can explore and unfold securely, accompanied by someone who cares, is professional and holds wisdom and respect for your therapeutic process. As a psychotherapist, I emphasise this ‘safe container’ a secure, non-judgmental environment as the important first step. From there, I am hard working and honest and will do my best to support you with whatever's going on for you right now, supporting you to find your voice, to tell your story.
As a gestalt therapist, there is a look to the East, philosophies such as Taoism, Buddhism underpin the way I work.
If you are not sure, I would encourage you to give therapy a chance. We live in such a busy world, it can be difficult to hear ourselves think. Therapy gives you space. A safe one. A space in which you can explore and unfold securely, accompanied by someone who cares, is professional and holds wisdom and respect for your therapeutic process. As a psychotherapist, I emphasise this ‘safe container’ a secure, non-judgmental environment as the important first step. From there, I am hard working and honest and will do my best to support you with whatever's going on for you right now, supporting you to find your voice, to tell your story.
01628 969907 View 01628 969907
Photo of Genevieve Collister Brown, Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Genevieve Collister Brown
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Serves Area
My approach integrates psychosexual, relational, existential, Gestalt and transactional analysis therapies.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
My approach integrates psychosexual, relational, existential, Gestalt and transactional analysis therapies.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
0161 524 1594 View 0161 524 1594
Gestalt Counsellors

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behaviour, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.